Celebrating the Launch of Grow. Thrive. Shine. – A Heartfelt Thank You
- Apr 2
- 2 min read
On 9th March, we were delighted to officially launch Grow. Thrive. Shine, Hub 21’s first ever Down Syndrome Awareness Exhibition — and what a truly special evening it was.
The launch marked exactly seven years since Hub 21 first opened its doors in Carrickmacross. Over that time, we have grown alongside the incredible children and families we support across Monaghan, Cavan, Louth, Meath, Armagh, and beyond.
Grow. Thrive. Shine. was a celebration of their faces, their stories, and their potential — the heart of everything we do.
We are deeply grateful to the people and organisations who made the evening possible:
Jim Gartlan, Julieann O'Reilly and everyone at Monaghan County Council for their continued support and for once again providing this wonderful venue.
Eoghan McBreen, for providing music and entertainment on the night
Robert Burns, Chief Executive of Monaghan County Council, and Councillor Paul Gibbons, Cathaoirleach of the Carrickmacross–Castleblayney Municipal District, for speaking on the night and their ongoing support.
Manor Farm, for their generous sponsorship, and Stephen Beagan for helping bring the sponsorship together.
The Parlour Event Hire, for styling the event so beautifully
The local schools — Patrician High School, Inver College, and Creative Monaghan — for kindly donating the easels.
Dalia Guzuaskaite, our talented photographer who has captured the children’s photos every year since 2018, free of charge.
We were especially honoured to welcome our guest speaker, Dr. Mei Lin Yap, from Dublin whose inspiring speech reminded us all why inclusion matters. Mei Lin’s powerful words encouraged everyone to see and hear people with Down syndrome, to provide opportunities, and to champion a more inclusive Ireland. Her message resonated deeply with all who attended — a reminder that when people are lifted, whole communities shine brighter.
Finally, thank you to the children and families featured in the exhibition, and to our dedicated team of staff, therapists, teachers, facilitators, volunteers, and board members. Your energy, dedication, and support make everything at Hub 21 possible.
Grow. Thrive. Shine. remained open throughout March at the Civic Offices in Carrickmacross, offering everyone an opportunity to experience these stories, celebrate our amazing children, and see the difference Hub 21 is making in our community.
